Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Part of our ChiChi philosophy is the belief that it really is possible to find fabulous, unique products right here in Winnipeg without breaking the bank. And if we can’t find it here, we search the 50’s and the globe and we bring it here. That philosophy has led us to bring Tord Boontje’s designer décor line with Artecnica, Jill Sawatsky’s Tony Chestnut line of handbags & hand-felted necklaces, Teresa Bickles’ line of vintage silver-plated spoon jewelry, to name a few, and countless treasures from the past to you.

Well, we found a skin care professional who shares our philosophy, or rather, she found us! Lovely Sheila Tan, who hails from Manila, has created for us a gorgeous line of high quality & affordable ChiChi private label Certified Organic, Vegan-friendly skin care. These products are not tested on animals and are environmentally friendly. Sheila uses 100% natural, pure therapeutic grade essential oils and Certified Organic ingredients when creating products that are also free of chemicals and pesticides. And my favourite part: No. Mineral. Oil. I don’t care what they say, mineral oil is not meant for the body, and the word “mineral” doesn’t necessarily equate with “healthy”.

So why go Organic instead of buying yet another pretty bottle of something from Sephora? Because if used properly Organic can be around better for you. It's cleaner, safer, and easier on delicate skin. It also works wonders on the flesh of those who suffer from excema, etc. The scents are not chemically-based so they are easier on the asthmatic. And don't forget, everything you put on your skin soaks right through and on into your bloodstream. For a prettier bottle from a high-profile cosmetics or skin-care giant? No thank you. It's time for all of us to read labels and make educated choices.

Okay, that’s the pitch, now here’s the list of magical elixers!

FROM TIP:

ChiChi Beauty Secret Anti-Aging SerumThis luxurious advanced serum includes a phytosteroid complex of Wild Yam and Soya for firming and wrinkle reduction. Guarana, a plant from Brazil that contains xanthine alkaloids (theophylline, caffeine, theobromine) recognized to tone, stimulate blood vessels and eliminate excel fatty tissue. This blend also works well on the neck and under your eyes. You could spend between $80 and $300 for a blend from the department store, or between $400 & $1600 for Botox but why would you! You could just pick up this little miracle in a bottle for only $35!

TO TOE:Tootsie TreatsNow don’t neglect your feet! We have a very ChiChi little foot-care kit that includes Cracked Heel Butter, Relief Blend-Pumice Foot Scrub, and Soothing Spray and only $30 for all 3 products!

Start your mini-pedi with our Relief Blend Pumice Foot Scrub which, in addition to Pumice, is infused with Certified Organic Essential Oils- Peppermint, Eucalyptus and Rosemary - all 3 with healing and antiseptic properties. Commonly used in high-end spas, you can do this without leaving home! Excellent for tired feet and legs with blocked pores from shaving, not that any of us have to shave mind you…

Finish up with our Soothing Spray with menthol, peppermint, tea tree oil & eucalyptus is great for the sinuses, muscular system, energizing and is a good nerve tonic for mental fatigue. This all-purpose spray is good for feet, legs, or problematic skin allergies and bites.

Exfoliating Body Scrub. Forget crushed almond this and rocky bits of that, our scrub uses Jojoba beads that closely resemble the sebum of the skin and are rich in Vitamin E to do the job. And it’s gentle enough to use on your face too! In 3 delightful fragrances including Cherry Blossom, Invigorating and Heaven. 8 oz for only $17.